The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has published a significant update on its guidelines. This update gives mobile network operators (MNOs) greater flexibility in data package offerings. The goal is to promote digital inclusion across the country.
The most notable change is the elimination of the product count limit. Previously, this limit restricted operators to offering a maximum of 40 products. With this revision, MNOs are now free to offer an unlimited number of data packages based on customer demand.
There are no restrictions on volume or validity of these packages. This change allows operators to tailor their offerings more precisely to customer preferences. It ensures that data packages align better with diverse needs.
Additionally, the BTRC has introduced a digital inclusion initiative. This initiative instructs MNOs to provide 200 MB of free data per month to all active mobile numbers. The aim is to expand internet and digital services access, particularly for underserved populations.
Taimur Rahman, chief corporate and regulatory affairs officer at Banglalink, welcomed these changes. “We appreciate initiatives by the regulator to reduce regulatory complexities related to products and services. We believe having the right to design products targeted to customers will enable us to be more customer-centric.
Flexible data package guidelines updated
At the same time, we also emphasize the need to ensure proper and fair competition in the market to ensure the freedom of choice for mobile users in Bangladesh.”
The revised directive also makes important changes to the redemption of loyalty points. Previously, MNOs could only provide telecom-related services in exchange for loyalty points.
Under the new guidelines, customers can redeem their points not only for telecom products but also for non-telecom items, subject to BTRC approval. This change offers consumers more flexibility and broader reward options. Another significant update concerns the minimum duration for which products must remain available in the market.
Previously, regular products were required to remain for at least 30 days. Customer-centric special packages (CCSP) had to stay for a minimum of seven days. Under the new directive, regular products must remain on the market for at least 15 days.
CCSP products must stay for at least three days. Research and development (R&D) products will still need to remain available for a minimum of seven days. These adjustments provide MNOs with more agility in managing their product portfolios.
They also ensure that customers have sufficient time to access and benefit from the offerings. The directive also introduces a restriction on internet packages. It prohibits operators from offering such packages between 12 am and 6 am.
The aim is to curb excessive late-night data usage and encourage a more balanced approach to internet consumption. These updates reflect the BTRC’s commitment to fostering a more flexible and inclusive digital ecosystem in Bangladesh.
